Hell is Us is an unconventional gaming experience that redefines both the soulslike and open-world genres. Developed by Rogue Factor, it emphasizes a distinctive form of exploration and investigation, pulling players into its strange, war-ravaged universe.
From medieval weaponry to sci-fi horrors, the game offers a unique narrative and an atmosphere that feels like no other. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Hell is Us and see what sets it apart from other games.
A Haunting Landscape with Hidden Depths
The setting of Hell is Us is hauntingly bleak, drawing players into a war-torn fictional country called Hadea. Unlike the typical bright and bustling open-world environment, Hadea presents a stark picture of devastation.
When first entering a small village surrounded by marshlands, players are greeted with grim visuals—mass graves, bodies hanging from trees, and a mournful violin playing softly in the background. This eerie atmosphere is a constant reminder of the ongoing civil war that has left the country isolated from the outside world.
The protagonist, Rémi, returns to his homeland years after fleeing as a child, driven by a desire to find his parents. This journey begins in an abandoned farmhouse and soon leads to the desolate village of Jova.
In Hell is Us, there are no hand-holding elements such as map markers or quest waypoints; instead, players must rely on scattered notes and conversational clues to find their path. This old-school approach to exploration ensures an immersive experience, allowing players to piece together their journey without a guiding light.
A Game of Investigation and Discovery
Hell is Us places a strong emphasis on investigation and discovery. Simple tasks, like retrieving a key for a military vehicle, can quickly evolve into complex quests filled with hidden layers.
Conversations often lead to clues, which in turn reveal puzzles and secrets, guiding players deeper into this enigmatic world. For example, an early mission leads Rémi into an ancient tomb where puzzle-solving becomes the key to progressing further.
The game’s design draws significant inspiration from sci-fi horror works like Alex Garland’s “Annihilation.” This influence is most evident in its enemy designs—creatures that have an uncanny, milky white humanoid appearance, recalling unsettling scenes from the film. Some enemies are even more monstrous, featuring bladed limbs and distorted bodies.
The chilling soundtrack further enhances this unsettling atmosphere, using electronic drones and eerie melodies to create an off-kilter, uneasy mood throughout.
Medieval Meets Sci-Fi in Intense Combat
Despite its science fiction backdrop, Hell is Us incorporates combat elements that feel more akin to medieval fantasy. Conventional firearms are useless against the game’s bizarre enemies, and players instead wield a glowing white sword that is capable of taking on these threats.
Combat is straightforward yet punishing, focusing on dodging, blocking, and striking with precision. Limited healing, provided by a “healing pulse” that encourages aggressive play, ensures players cannot approach battles passively.
Stamina management is another crucial element—running low on health means that stamina depletes faster, making it essential for players to think strategically and avoid reckless attacks.
This strategic layer adds depth to the combat, making every fight a challenge where players must balance offense and defense carefully. Adding further complexity is a drone companion that can distract enemies, allowing for well-timed critical strikes.
The Rewards of Exploration
Exploration in Hell is Us isn’t just about piecing together clues or advancing the storyline; it also offers tangible rewards in the form of powerful new weapons and abilities. During my time in the game, I found twin axes capable of unleashing flurries of strikes and a powerful polearm hidden behind a challenging puzzle involving ancient medallions.
This integration of exploration with meaningful rewards makes every discovery feel valuable, encouraging players to search every corner of the game’s dark, mysterious world.
A Story Shrouded in Mystery
As Rémi reaches the village of Jova, he learns that his father had left with the peacekeeping forces, propelling the storyline forward into uncharted territory. The narrative hints at a larger, mysterious story involving alien languages and gothic sci-fi structures, leaving players curious about what’s to come.
The influence of creative director Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, known for his work on Deus Ex: Human Revolution and Mankind Divided, shines through in the game’s striking visual style and the atmospheric depth it offers.
Hell is Us embraces its 1990s setting not only in its visual design but also in its game mechanics. The absence of modern conveniences like waypoints brings back an era of genuine exploration, evoking a sense of freedom and curiosity often missing in today’s games.
It’s this willingness to stay unconventional and a little strange that makes Hell is Us a truly distinctive experience, leaving players eager to uncover the mysteries that lie ahead.
Hell is Us is not just about combat or exploration—it’s about embracing the unknown, diving into a world filled with eerie beauty and dark secrets. Its unique blend of elements makes it an adventure that goes far beyond the ordinary, offering a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
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What is the setting of Hell is Us?
The game is set in Hadea, a fictional European country ravaged by civil war. The grim and haunting environment is central to the narrative, immersing players in an eerie, bleak atmosphere.
How does combat work in Hell is Us?
Combat in Hell is Us combines medieval fantasy elements with strategic decision-making. Players use a glowing sword, dodge, and block, relying on stamina management and healing pulses for aggressive and rewarding combat encounters.
